====== Internal self-helper ======

(Namespace: [[plural glossary:start]])

^ Type of term | Possible [[role]] for a [[headmate]] |
^ Synonyms or near-synonyms | [[Core]], [[gatekeeper]], [[protector]] |
^ Antonyms or near-antonyms | [[Persecutor]] |

An internal self-helper is a [[headmate]] who possesses enhanced introspective emotional wisdom and can provide guidance to the rest of the [[system]] in pursuing [[healthy multiplicity]], [[final fusion]], or other goals.

An internal self-helper is usually, but not always, a [[gatekeeper]], or at least capable of [[internal communication]] and/or [[passive influence]]. They may be, but are not always, a [[protector]], and/or the [[core]].

===== Controversy =====

"Internal self-helper" is terminology originating from the therapeutic model of internal family systems, which was implicated in the Alsana Castlewood tragedy. For this reason, even some systems who have headmates who //could// be called internal self-helpers still choose not to use this word.